We all recognize the tune of Auld Lang Syne. We may also raise our glasses as we belt out a round of “For old acquaintance be forgot” when the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, but what does it mean? Probably something different for each of us.

Technically, the Scottish words mean “old long since.” Loosely translated, we could say “for old times’ sake.” Maybe the old-timers cried in their beer as they reminisced about the good-old-days, forgetting that the old days weren’t always that great.

Regardless, it’s tradition that we reflect on the past year as we look toward the new year. For me, it’s been an amazing time of transition from teacher to author. As an independent author, that includes marketing–which is a mathematical mystery in itself. Formulas and algorithms aside, I find it exciting to find my comfort zone somewhere between where I am and where I want to be.

On this last day of 2018, I know that the future involves change. That’s the nature of our lives. Nothing remains the same unless, I guess, we hibernate on some deserted island. Come to think of it, with the melting of glaciers and rising sea waters, that would change as well. Ergo, nothing remains the same.

As we approach the new year, I’m not setting tangible goals that involve numerals. The number of books sold, the number of Kindle pages read, the monthly income from my books, the number of words I’ve written for my next story–none of those things are on my 2019 list of resolutions. [OK, I’ll probably check on those things, like four times a day, but they’re not going to be given high priority. Of course, that could change.]

Rather, my goal is to bring enjoyment to others through my novels. Maybe help someone who’s going through a rough time or encourage someone who feels alone and dejected. We all need a cup of kindness here and there, and I’m darn proud that readers tell me that I write “feel good” stories.

Yep, that’s my goal for 2019…for auld lang syne.